Wednesday, October 17, 2018

What Is an AZW File (And How Do I Open One)?

A file with the .azw file extension is a popular file format for storing eBooks for Amazon’s Kindle line of eReaders and devices using the Kindle app. Along with storing things like bookmarks, annotations, and last known page, AZW files usually contain DRM protection, or copyright protection, to prevent copying and illegal viewing.

What Is an AZW File?

AZW files first rolled out onto Kindle devices in 2007; it’s based on the MOBI file format that Amazon bought in 2005. Although AZW files are based on MOBI, they contain better compression than MOBI files and are usable on Amazon Kindles or a device with Kindle software.

Fourth generation and later Kindles use the AZW3 format, also called KF8, while seventh generation and later Kindles use KFX format.

If you’re using Linux, you’ll have to turn to a third-party reader like Calibre. It’s an open-source app that offers enough versatility that you might even prefer using it on Windows and macOS, as well. Calibre can open AZW files, as well as many other formats.